Bone mineral density variations in 10-75 years-old women inhabitants of Tehran

Bone densitometry is used to diagnose osteopenia and osteoporosis and, if necessary,
prevent bone fractures, especially that of femoral neck. Dual X-ray absorptiometry
(DXA) has become a common method to assay bone mineral density. Bone density is
related to many factors such as race, age, sex, environmental factors, and nutrition. No
comprehensive study has yet been performed in Iran.
Among the 10-75 year-old population of Tehran, 600 persons from 50 clusters were
randomly selected, following exclusion of people suffering from rheumatoid arthritis,
thyroid disease, menstrual problem, fractures or other conditions affecting bone
metabolism. All participants underwent clinical examination and lumbar and spinal
densitometry using DXA method.
In lumbar spine, the duration of peak bone density was between 25 and 35 years old
and bone loss started at 40. In femoral neck, the duration of peak bone mass was from 30
to 35 years old. Prevalence of osteoporosis and osteopenia in women older than 50 years
old were 28.1% and 53.3%, respectively.
Prevalence of osteopenia and osteoporosis are higher in our study population. Peak
bone density in 25-35 year-old populations could be useful in policy-making for
prevention and treatment of osteoporosis.